2017 NHL Stanley Cup Playoff Predictions - Stanley Cup Final

Stanley Cup Final

(M2) Pittsburgh Penguins vs. (W2) Nashville Predators

Brad: Nashville Predators
Starting with Pittsburgh, they beat the Columbus Blue Jackets in five games, then went the distance against the Washington Capitals and the Ottawa Senators. The forwards are mostly in tact, and are led by the usual crew of Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. Phil Kessel is also racking up the points, while Jake Guentzel is tied for the lead in goals. The defense is getting by without Kris Letang, with Justin Schultz leading the way. There is a switch in goal, as Matt Murray has recovered from his injury to be the starter again, while Marc-Andre Fleury is again the backup.

Nashville swept the Chicago Blackhawks in the first round, then disposed of the St. Louis Blues and the Anaheim Ducks in six games each. Up front, Filip Forsberg leads the team with 15 points. The offense took a big hit last round, as Ryan Johansen was injured. The defensive has been the bread and butter for the Predators, as the four-headed monster of P.K. Subban, Ryan Ellis, Roman Josi, and Mattias Ekholm have gotten it done at both ends of the ice. Pekke Rinne has been pretty solid between the pipes throughout these playoffs.

It's a battle between offense and defense, with Pittsburgh having the upper hand offensively and Nashville's defense being head-and-shoulder better. It could be argued that Pittsburgh has a slight edge in goal, assuming Murray is fully healed. Nashville is the more rested team, which may help early on in the series. Pittsburgh just won it last year, so they do know what it takes. I'm guessing a long series, with a new champion. Nashville Predators in seven.

MDK: Nashville Predators
The Stanley Cup Final is finally upon up as the Nashville Predators make their Final debut against the defending champions Pittsburgh Penguins. If I had to pick a team to win the Cup, it would be Nashville. This team really shows that they have the chemistry and the playing style to beat Pittsburgh for their first Cup.

After Round 3
Brad: 9-5
MDK: 8-6